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An Air India recruitment event for airport loaders led to a chaotic scene at Mumbai airport yesterday. Over 25,000 applicants showed up for 600 positions, overwhelming Air India staff who struggled to manage the massive crowd.
Footage showed applicants pushing each other to reach the registration counters. Reports indicated that applicants endured hours-long waits without food or water, leading to many feeling unwell.
Airport loaders are responsible for loading and unloading luggage on aircraft, operating baggage belts, and ramp tractors. Each aircraft requires a minimum of five loaders to handle luggage, cargo, and food supplies. The monthly salary for airport loaders ranges from Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000, with many earning more than Rs 30,000 due to overtime allowances. The educational requirements are basic, but candidates must be physically fit.
Among the applicants was Prathameshwar from Buldhana district, who traveled over 400 km for the interview. "I have come to apply for the position of handyman. They are offering a salary of Rs 22,500," he said. Prathameshwar, a second-year BBA student, indicated that due to rampant unemployment, he would consider quitting his studies if offered the job. He appealed to the government to create more employment opportunities.
Another candidate, holding a BA degree, admitted not knowing much about the handyman role but emphasized the need for employment. Similarly, a candidate from Alwar, Rajasthan, with an MCom degree, applied despite the job's basic educational requirements. "I am also preparing for government job exams, but I heard the salary here is good, so I decided to apply."
The Mumbai incident occurred shortly after a widely circulated video depicted job seekers in Bharuch district's Ankleshwar pushing and shoving during a walk-in interview.